The nurse assists the midwife during a vaginal examination of the ...

[penguins]

The nurse assists the midwife during a vaginal examination of the client in labor. What does the nurse recognize as the primary reason that a vaginal exam is done at this time?
 
  a. To apply internal monitoring electrodes
  b. To assess for Goodell's sign
  c. To determine cervical dilation and effacement
  d. To determine strength of contractions

Question 2

The nurse is preparing to initiate intravenous (IV) access on a patient in the active phase of labor. Which size IV cannula is best for this patient?
 
  a. 18-gauge
  b. 20-gauge
  c. 22-gauge
  d. 24-gauge

[snackralk]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The primary purpose of a vaginal exam during labor is to determine cervical dilation and effacement and fetal descent. Goodell's sign is assessed in early pregnancy, not during labor. Although application of monitoring electrodes is done by entering the vagina, it is not the primary purpose of a vaginal exam. Vaginal exams are not done to determine the strength of contractions.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The larger the number, the smaller the diameter of the cannula. The nurse should select the largest bore cannula possible. IV access is initiated for hydration prior to epidural placement and for use in an emergency. Both require the rapid administration of fluid, which is most easily accomplished with a large bore cannula.

[penguins]

TYSM

[ryansturges]

Excellent